A NURSE who has specialised in the effects of alcohol on the liver, may soon sit in judgement on drink drivers.

For after 40 years in the health service, clinical matron of gastroenterology Sheelagh Whittaker has applied to become a magistrate, in her retirement.

"I loved the speciality and diversity of gastroenterology and had a particular interest in the effects of alcohol on the liver," she said.

"There have been some unbelievable changes in the health service - new treatments, new drugs and the role of the nurse has changed so much, but I've thoroughly enjoyed my career.

"I will really miss the patient contact, my nursing teams and my matron colleagues as there is a great team spirit within the gastroenterology directorate and the division of medicine."

She spent five years running a clinic in the African bush before joining South Cleveland Hospital (now James Cook University Hospital) 23 years ago in acute medicine. Then she chose her speciality.

One of her first ambitions in her new found retirement is to visit New Zealand for three weeks to watch the British Lions in action.